[Acupuncture in edema of the extremities following radiation or combination therapy of cancer of the breast and uterus].

Acupuncture was carried out in 141 sufferers from late-onset radiation injuries to skin and soft tissues. 122 patients (86%) revealed clinical manifestations of edema of varying gravity in arms and legs, while 19 (14%) suffered radiation-induced neuritis or plexitis unaccompanied by edema. Radionuclide and rheographic studies as well as evaluation of hemostatic function showed acupuncture to be an effective treatment for edema and pain. It also improved lymph flow, rheovasographic indexes and normalized hemostasis. The best results were obtained in cases of stage I-II edema.